Wave Parameters

The simplest mechanical waves are associated with simple harmonic motion and repeat themselves for several cycles. These simple harmonic waves can be modeled using a combination of sine and cosine functions. Consider a simplified surface water wave that moves across the water's surface. Unlike complex ocean waves, in surface water waves, water m...

Consider a ball floating on the surface of a water wave. The ball moves up and down in a simple harmonic motion.

The highest point of the wave is known as the crest, and the lowest point is known as the trough. The distance between two consecutive troughs or crests with the same height and the same slope is the wavelength of a wave.